A vehicle crashed into a crowd of rugby league fans in Newcastle, located in eastern Australia, on Saturday, resulting in at least 10 injuries. The incident occurred when the driver appeared to have lost control of the vehicle.
Details of the Incident
Reports indicate that several children were among the injured. According to New South Wales officials, two of the injured are in critical condition, including a 5-year-old girl and a 67-year-old man. The incident took place in the suburb of Wallsend in Newcastle, about 110 kilometers (68 miles) north of Sydney.
Read more: Arch Manning Confident Ahead of New College Football Season
Fans had gathered in the streets to support the Newcastle Knights rugby team as they headed towards the National Rugby League final against the Sydney Roosters in Sydney on Sunday.
Driver Arrested
Local police announced that the driver is an 18-year-old man who was arrested after the incident and taken to the hospital for necessary tests. Gavin Morris, the mayor of Newcastle, stated in a televised address that the driver was one of the rugby fans and had lost control of the vehicle. He said: "He was speeding, was excited, and was there to enjoy the moment. Somehow he lost control of the vehicle and crashed into the crowd."
The police are investigating the incident, and initial inquiries suggest that it is not related to terrorism. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the incident as "horrific" and stated, "Rugby league brings people together, and this should be a weekend full of excitement and pride for Newcastle fans."
Read more: Aaron Judge Removed from New York Yankees' 26-Man Roster for Wild Card Series · Three Students Killed in School Shooting in the Philippines
